8 things to do this weekend

Friday

Sep 2, 2016 at 11:39 AMSep 2, 2016 at 11:45 AM

1. Catch a car show/fundraiser

Beauty and the Beast Inc. is hosting a Wreaths Across America fundraiser and car show Sept. 4 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at 2043 Lejeune Blvd. in Jacksonville. Wreaths Across America lays wreaths upon veterans’ graves each year and proceeds from the event goes toward the organization. A free smoked pig dinner will be provided for all entrants. For more information, contact Sam Bramlet at 910-330-0426.

2. Visit a zoo

Did you know there is a zoo nearby? Sunday is the perfect day to pay Lynnwood Park Zoo a visit for National Wildlife Day. The special day was founded 11 years ago in memory of animal lover and conservationist Steve Irwin, and it serves to bring awareness to the number of endangered animals nationally. Find out more via nationalwildlifeday.com. And learn about Lynnwood at lynnwoodparkzoo.com.

3. Get ready for some football

The college football season kicks off this weekend, and the NFL is not far behind (next week). Make sure your fantasy teams are in good order (or hold a fantasy draft with your buddies), set up your man cave or she shed and get ready for some fun.

4. Thank your newspaper carrier

Sunday is Newspaper Carrier Day, so take a moment to thank your carrier. They work 365 days a year — including through tropical storms and on holidays such as Labor Day — to bring you the news!

5. Buy something handmade

Carteret County’s Arts & Crafts fall show will be held Sept. 3-4 at the Beaufort Historic Site, 130 Turner St. in Beaufort. The event features the sale of arts and crafts of coastal artisans. For more information, visit CCArtsAndCrafts.com.

6. See ‘The Light’

Catch a movie during the three-day weekend such as the PG-13 romantic period novel-turned-film “The Light Between Oceans” starring Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander and Rachel Weisz. If you’re looking for something more light and funny, check out Kevin Smith latest independent flick “Yoga Hosers (PG-13)” about two teenage yoga enthusiasts who team up with a legendary man-hunter to battle with an ancient evil.

7. Catch a Chris Cavanaugh concert

Chris Cavanaugh will be performing at SwanFest Sept. 4 from 6:30-8 p.m. at The Pavilion at Olde Town Square in Swansboro. No alcohol or pets permitted. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy some free tunes. For information, visit SeasideArtsCouncil.com.

8. Celebrate International Bacon Day

If you plan on attending any tailgates, holiday potlucks or cookouts on Saturday, be sure to bring the bacon to mark International Bacon Day and make those burgers and hot dogs extra tasty.

9. Get your tickets

Less than 70 tickets are left for the Onslow County Parnership for Children “Diamonds & Denim” fundraiser. Wear your jeans and fanciest bling on Sept. 9 at 6 p.m. to the American Legion Building, 146 Broadhurst Rd. in Jacksonville, and dance the night away. The event will also include a meal, live and silent auctions, and live entertainment by Spare Change. Tickets are $50. For information or tickets, call 910-938-0336.